BBMP to clear dry waste only on Sundays, kitchen waste on all days

The Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), which has taken up solid waste management (SWM) on a war footing, will make segregation of garbage at source a simple process for citizens.

As per a new policy, the Palike will clear dry waste only on Sundays.  “We will remove foul-smelling kitchen waste every day. Segregated dry waste can be stored by citizens before it is disposed of by our garbage collectors once a week,” said Palike Commissioner Rajneesh Goel.

Goel said that in cases where garbage collectors cover large areas, local Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) would be notified about the designated days to collect dry waste.

Regarding a colour code for identifying the two types of waste, Goel said there was no need for it. “We expect each citizen to separate kitchen waste in a container meant for it. Each morning, garbage collectors will collect kitchen waste from every house. Only on Sundays or designated days dry waste will be collected,” he said.

According to Palike officials, even pourakarmikas are being trained to collect wet waste.
“A circular has already been issued to the Superintendent Engineer for SWM and to garbage contractors on the collection of wet waste,” said a Palike officer. The BBMP has, however, requested citizens not to use plastic bags to dump wet waste.

“Even if citizens store wet waste in a plastic bag, we will take the waste and give back the bag. We will collect plastic only as part of dry waste,” said an officer.
On the penal clause, Goel said it was the prerogative of the BBMP Council to decide on it.